18th annual Holiday Bike Drive makes cheer for over 375 kids

A new bike, thanks to the Community Cycling Center.
(Photo by Greg Lee)

The Community Cycling Center’s 18th annual Holiday Bike Drive took place on Sunday at Legacy Emanuel Hospital in north Portland. The event brings together dozens of volunteers who set up low-income families with nearly 400 shiny refurbished bicycles and tricycles. In many ways, the event is a rite of passage for the kids and the volunteers — both of whom aren’t likely to ever forget the experience.

We didn’t make it out to the event this year, but CCC Communications and Marketing Manager Melinda Musser sent over a few thoughts and a link to some excellent photos.

Musser said over 375 children received bikes, new helmets, and safety education. The families that lined up for this early holiday treat spoke 22 different languages. Musser also pointed out how the event ties together the CCC’s programs and approach to advocacy. “It was great to witness the interconnectedness of our programs. For example, members of Hacienda’s bike committee, Andando en Bicicletas en Cully, led helmet fitting lessons for participating families. Several graduates of our Create a Commuter program participated in the Holiday Bike Drive with their children and grandchildren. Many families will be riding together after this event.”

See the many excited faces of the kids, smiles from volunteers, and other scenes from the event in the photos below (full gallery here):

The atrium of Legacy Emanuel gets filled with bikes, laid out according to size, and the kids get to pick out whichever one they like!
(Photo by Rohith Gunawardena)